Drugs Affecting the Respiratory System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on drugs affecting the respiratory system.

Bronchodilators

Drugs that relax the muscles of the bronchi, allowing the airways to open wider, making breathing easier.

Corticosteroids

Medications that reduce inflammation in the airways, helping to control asthma and severe respiratory inflammation.

Antihistamines

Drugs that block histamine to alleviate symptoms of allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching.

Mucolytics

Medications that break down thick mucus in the lungs to make it easier to cough up secretions.

Asthma

A chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and difficulty breathing.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe.

Respiratory infections

Infections that affect the airways and lungs, leading to symptoms like cough and difficulty breathing.

Inhaler

A device used to deliver medication directly to the lungs.

Tachycardia

An increased heart rate, which can be a side effect of some bronchodilators.

Oral thrush

A fungal infection in the mouth that can occur with the use of inhaled corticosteroids.